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FRENCH'S 

NO. 23. 



^ t^»^- 



BRIAN BOKOIHME: 

OR, 

THE MAID OF ERIN. 

A 

HISTORICAL HIBEENIAN MELO-DEAMA, 

IN THREE ACTS. 



BY JAMES SHERIDAN KNOWLES, ESQ., 



AUTHOR OF "VIR Gl NIU S," "W I L LI A M 



TEL L," ETC. 



With Cast of Characters, Stage lousiness, Costumes, Relative 
Positions, etc. etc. 



AS PERFORMED AT THE NEW YORK THEATRES. 



PRICE, 



NEW-YORK ; 
SAMUEL FRENCH, 

121 IVASSAU-STREET. 



m CENTS. 



^Oflograpft 



FRENCH'S 

2C]^e ^ctms lEUition, 
No. XXIII. 



BRIAN BOROIHME: 

- OR, 

THE MAID OF ERIN. 



HISTORICAL HIBERNIAN MELO-DEAMA, 

IN THREE ACTS. 

BY JAMES SHERIDAN KNOWLES, ESQ., 

AUTHOR OF "VIKGINIU S," " WILLI AM TKL L," E T O. 



TO WHICH AKE ADDED, 

A Description of the Costume— Cast of the Characters— Entrances and Exits- 
^ Relative Positions of the Performers on the Stage, and the whole of the 

^ Stage.' S'jsines's. . , ^ 

AS PERFORMED AT- l^KS. NEW, YOfe^ 'fflE-ATI^ES: ' 



/'v';;i,f,^^- \*:,i;; r- --^ 



NEW-YORK : 
SAMUEL FRENCH, 

121 NASSAU- STREET. 



/ 

r \ 



ACT I. 

SCENE I. — Curtain rises slowly — Mountainous pass and fortijied-^The 
* towers of Ben Haider {Howth) in the distance — a view of ancient Dub- 
lin with, the Danish Flotilla at anchor in the Bay — a Small Boat from 
one of the Ships appears and rows off— First Dane reconnoiters the 
spot, then whistles, enter Danish Soldiers, followed by Toi'magnus, 
B. u. E. — Music. 

Enter Udislaus, with bloody dagger, L. h. 2 e. 

Torm. Now ! what from Datho 1 

Udis. Curses on the traitor. 

Torm. Ah ! does he hesitate. 

Udis. See'st thou this blade, it drank the coward's blood ! 

Torin. Death to my hopes ! 

Udis. Under the shade of night I sought his post in secret ; near yon 
promontory's base, the recreat stood, I urged his promise — bought with 
Danish gold his oath to serve our cause. 

Torm. Time presses, Udislaus, what followed, quick. 

Udis. The driveller seemed to feel compunction's sting, and whining 
sought to win me from my purpose, urging gratitude he owed his mon- 
arch ; half-blooded slave — my rage overpowered my speech, my dagger 
was my tongue, and spoke to his heart. 

Torm. Still, then, we're safe — his secret we've gained, and proud 
Erina soon shall rue the hour she scorned the great Tormagnus' love. 
The morning guard approaches i& relieve those stationed on the moun- 
tain pass, we must depart — more dreadful to return. 

[ They Exit, l. 1 e. 

Enter M'Carty. Moore. Cormac and Soldiers, l. u. e. 

M'Car. On to your posts, my friends. \_Exeunt .soldiers, r. 1 E. 

Cor. How wears the morn ? 

M'Car. The sun is only up — 'tis the fifth hour, the moon is still most 
serene. The Danish fleet rides smoothly in our bay — I wonder the 
waters which embrace our lovely isle, should give such harbors to her 
rathless foes. 



BRIAN BOROIHME. O 

Cor. My lord, they only rest from last night's storm. 
M^Car. True, Cormac, 'twas indeed a boisterous night. Behold who 
comes so near our post ! The challenge, Cormac. 
Cor. Hoa ! who passes there ] 

O'Don. iWithout.l A friend ! a friend to Royal Brian. 
Cor. Give the word. • 

O^Don. Old Ireland — Victory — or Glorious Death. 

Enter O'Donohue, throws off disguise, R. u. e. 

C(yr. Lord of the lakes — O'Donohue the noble — welcome. 

M^Car. Most welcome, valiant chief, how sped your bold attempt 1 

O^Don. My brave M'Carty Moore, it has succeeded to my utmost 
wish ; unknown and unsuspected I have traversed the fierce invader's 
camp — God of our fathers guard our native isle. This very day, the 
fell Tormagnus will strive to subjugate our happy land ; but the 
cursed aim ensures its own defeat — as she has been, so she shall be, 
true ! Who kept the watch upon the hill last night 1 

Cor. The brave O'Dwyer. 

O^Don. 'Twas a stormy stand, I stood a long time looking at his fire, 
which seemed to burn the clouds ; it moved in many fantastic shapes, 
and flashed upon the visage of the deep, with a red and angry glare — 
but come, my friends, 'ti%time we seek the king — the treachery, of the 
foe can ne'er awake his fears — the monarch whom his people love is 
ever armed against an enemy. [Exeunt, r. h. 

SCENE II.— The Hall of Shillelagh 

Enter Emma, r. 

Em. Mercy on me ! what a terrible thing it is for a girl like me to 
live in such a hurly burly bustle — oh, I wish my kind lady, the Princess 
Erina, would once more return to the sweet shades of Killarney-7- 
heigho ! — 'twas there I first saw my dear Roderick — well, though he is 
but a simple squire to the lord of the Lion — I love him so — but I must 
not tell him how dearly — oh ! I wish he were back again. [Terrence 
sings without.'] Dear, how provoking ; 'tis our armorer, old tipsy Ter- 
rence. 

Enter Terrence, r. h. 

Ter. Oh, my dear, sweet, charming Miss Emma, I knew I should 
have some good luck this morning, I'm never out — one kiss of your 
cherry lips, my dear cfelightful 

Em. Oh, heavens ! keep ofif, you horrid old fright, I wonder you an't 
ashamed to be always guzzling — I declare you are almost tipsy already. 

Ter. Yes, and the reason of that is, my sweet Miss — is — because — 
because — I've been drinking — but no matter, 'tis all for the good of my 
country. 

Em. Ridiculous ! the good, indeed — why, how so — 

Ter. Why, you must know, I've been offering up my prayers and 
vows for the good of our troops, and I'm so hearty in the cause, that 
somehow or other, my throat is apt to get a little dry in the business, so 



6 RRIAN BOROIHME. 

do you see, I always carry a flagon of comfort at my elbow, to bring 
my mouth through my devotions. 

Em. Devotions, indeed ! but tell me, Mr. Terrenes, if these terrible 
monsters the Danes should win the day, what will become of us 1 

Ter. Faith I don't know, but if your Irish knights don't turn their 
Daneship's jackdts, 'tis'nt the fault of old Terrence ! Not a dirk from 
the helmet to the mail coat, and spur, has been left unrivetted ; let me 
and my Cyclops alone for good workmanship. Here stands I, old Ter- 
rence, for sixty years, man and boy, (aye, ever since I was the height 
of my own anvil) Armorer to his Royal Majesty, King Brian the victo- 
rious, (Heaven bless our good auld Monarch to the end of time) and 
never in all my life was — as I say — my sweet Miss, you don't remem- 
ber, perhaps — I was a lad then — the day I fitted the King with his first 
suit of studded steel. 

Em. I remember, indeed ! you old doting — stupid. Oh, mercy! 
whc t's that 1 I declare, I'm ready to die for fear ! 

Ter. O fie, don't be afraid ! Bless my poor body and bones, it's 
very charming, though ! Oh, I see, it's some prisoners taken by our 
out-posts — ah, I'm never out. 

Em.. iLooking out.] As I live, my dear Roderick returned — now do, 
Terrence — do now get away. 

Ter. Well, I'm going. 

Em. Well, do go. 

Ter. I'm going, going, going, — gone. [Exit, a. h. 

Em. I never knew such a tiresome old 

Rod. [Without.^ Di-spose of those prisoners in the North Tower, and 
guard them well 'till further orders. 

Em. Thank heaven, my dear Roderick is here at last. 

Enter Roderick, l. h. 

Rod. Ah, my little sprig of sweet briar, here I am, just from Killar- 
ney Castle, with a fresh sample of Irish valor. — One hundred chieftains 
of the Prince O'Donohue, my valiant master. Every lad of them with 
the semblance of a lion displayed on their shield, and the heart of a lion 
enshrined in his breast — a glorious cargo, my girl ; of the prime stock, 
from the best market, insured to thejr country, and consigned to their 
King. 

Em. And tell me, Roderick, was it for that our army shouted 1 

Rod. It was, my girl ; they gave us what they call a soldier's salute, 
not very polite, indeed, but what it wanted in ceremony it made up in 
sincerity. Talking of ceremony, my love, I believe I forgot to salute 
you, so — there, my little rogue, [kissing her,} if I should forget my man- 
ners again — put me in mind of them. 

Em. Hark ! that's the breakfast bugle, I must attend the Princess. 

Rod. Hark you, Emma — I know a young gentleman that would be 
very glad" to save you that trouble. 

Em. Indeed ! who is he, pray 1 

Rod. W^hat think you of my Lord O'Donohue 1 

Em. Humph ! I thought so — ah, Roderick, if I chose, I could tell 
you 



BRIAN BOROIHME. 7 

Rod. Whati ^ 

Em. Nay, I won't ! "^ 

Rod. Do, now ! 

Em. I can't ! 

Rod. Then I can. 

£to. What is it, then 1 

Rod. That I had forgotten my manners. 

\_He kisses her, she breaks from him and runs off, R. H. 

Rod. I don't know how it is, I came here to the camp to make war, 
but all that I have done yet is to make love — this heart of mine must be 
made of very combustible matter, for let the bright eye of beauty shoot 
a spark at it, and 'tis all in a blaze in a moment. 

SONG. 

Oh, an Irishman's heart is as stout as a shillelagh, 

It beats with delight to chase sorrow and woe. 

When the piper lilts up, then it dances so- gaily. 

And thumps with a whack, for to lather the foe ; 

But by beauty lit up — faith in less than a jiffy, 

So warm is the stuff, it soon blazes and burns, ^ 

Then so wild is each heart, of us lads of the Liffy, 

It thumps, dances and beats altogether by turns ; 

Then away with dull care, let's be merry and frisky ; 

Our motto is this, let it widely extend — 

Give poor Pat but his freedom, his sweetheart and whiskey, 

And he'll die for old Ireland, his king, and his friend. 

Should ruffian invaders e'er menace our shore 
Tho' the foes of dear Erin may strut and look big ; 
Yet nabochUsh a chud they shall have it galore, 
For Patrick's the boy that can handle a twig ; — 
But the battle once over, no rage fills his breast — 
Mild mercy' still softens the heart of the brave, 
For of valor, of love and of frien^dship possest, 
The soldier of Erin but conquers to save. 

Then away with dull care, &c. 

Enter O'Donohue, M'Carty MooRt; and Cormac, l. 1 e. 

O'Don. Good Roderick, can we have an audience thus early of the 
King"? [Trumpet, r. h. 

Cor That is the royal trumpet, is it not 1 
M'Car. Our Kfng, our venerated Father comes. 

Flourish — Enter Soldiers, then Brian, r 2 e. — All but Soldiers kneel. 

M'Car. Long live the King, our Parent, our Protector. 

Brian. Stand up, my friends — profane not thus your knees — [they all 
rise'] now, now, I recognise my faithful subjects — welcome, welcome 
my children ; take a parent's blessing — oh, thou eternal power, whose 
dread omniscience reads every secret w^ish that warms my soul, protect 



-^ 



8 BRIAN BOROIHME. 

my people, guard this envied land from the invader's iron yoke, crown 
our resistance with decisive conquest, or grant us glory in a patriot's 
grave. Now ! my young warrior ! How fares it, Prince. 

O^Don. May every morn, for countless years to come, smile on my 
Sovereign like this cheering hour. 

Brian. We miss'd thee at our revels yester 'eve. 

O'Don. My liege — under the friendly shadows of the night, disguised, 
I learned the number of the foe, their manner of combat, and each lead- 
er's force. This day Tormagnus means to stake his all, and offer battle 
to victorious Brian, This scroll, my liege, contains a hasty sketch of 
.our insatiable enemy's designs. 

Brian. Adventurous, gallant youth, thy matchless sire, the undaunted 
lion of our sea-girt land, revives in thee — receive thy merited reward — 
[draws his sivord, and knights A-im] — arise, our valiant Knight of the 
battle ! Your installation. Prince, shall follow straight, and with the 
red branch heroes, thou shalt gain the glorious meed which noble souls 
• pursue — the laurel and the shamrock shall entwine to grace the patriot 
soldier's lofty brow. 
' Cor. My liege — the Princess. 

Enter Erina with several ladies, r. 1 e. 

Bri. Oh ! my dearest daughter ! child of my hopes, come to my 
arms — alas this field of dangerous strife — these throngs of hardy sol- 
diery — this clang of trumpets but little suit thy tender soul, Erina ; 
dost thou not fear, my child, the coming conflict 1 

Eri. Fear, my dread liege, the daughter of great Brian know the 
touch of fear ! O ! no, my father, could my prayers prevail, and wo- 
man's modesty forbade it not, I'd doff my sex's softness, spurn my dis- 
taff, and in the hour of battle grasp a sword, to save your sacred life or 
lose my own. 

Bri. There spoke the soul of Brian. By all the glories of my ancient 
race, I prize thee, my Erina, yes I prize thee beyond victory, or bright 
renown ! Chieftains, forgive an old fond father's prattle — I had forgot, 
Erina, thank this youth, the son of my dearest compeer, whose memory 
shall live till time's no more ; though young in arms, he has already 
done me a veteran's service — thank him for thy father. 

O'JDon. My gracious liege, your goodness overrates the trifling peril 
of my last night's duty. 

Bri. The trifling peril, says't thou, my young hero — now, by our 
hopes, the deed was greatly bold ; would'st think it, Erina, our short 
truce (confirmed by sacred and mutual oaths) this day the base invaders 
of our shores would foully violate ; but by thy valor he comes (we trust) 
to meet disgrace and ruin. 

Eri. I know not how to thank you, noble Prince, or to appreciate 
justly, your noble desert — to native loyalty this scarf I consecrate — be 
still, my dearest father's chosen champion, and where he hurls his ven 
geance on the foe, there let that scarf be seen. 

O'Don. Beauteous Erina, how shall I speak — so greatly overpaid, 'tis 
poor to say — yet I can no more ; this precious gift I prize beyond my 
life. 



BRIAN BOROIHME. J 

Bri. 'Tis well. Proceed we now to supplicate the god of battles, to 
protect our arms, then let the foe come on. Our sacred course will 
mock his rage, and turn his pride to shame. 
lExeunt Brian, followed by O'Donohue, Erina, Lords, Ladies, r. 1 e. 

SCENE in. — An Abbey Ruins adjacent to the tomb of St. Patrick — 
Dark. — The entrance from under the .ruins — violent storm — storm dies 
away — Moon appears clear — Stars appear. — Voltimar, Udislaus, 
Danish soldiers and officers discovered on ivatch. 

. • GLEE. 

Hush! Hush! Hush! 

Let not a sound betray 
The hardy warriors of the north, 

Hush! Hush! Hush! 
This spot points out the way 

Our guide, come forth. 

Albert enters from Tomb, c.,with two others, who bear torches. 

Udis. Well, Albert, are we safe 1 

Alb. I have explored the passage — all is well, where is our chief! 

Vdis. He comes. 

Music — ToRMAGNus and Soldiers enter, l. 3 e. 

Tor. What says our guide 1 

Alb. We may proceed, my lord. Datho, though in the end he was a" 
traitor, and justly died your victim, had in this revealed the truth, a long 
and vaulted isle winds, as he said— the torch's light, my lord, must 
guide your steps. 

Tor. Now soldiers, hear, a subterraneous passage leads from this ruin 
to the shrine where fair Erina, at this hour, each morn, unguarded, un- 
attended, offers up devotion to her saint. Thrice has your chief de- 
manded her of Brian for his bride, and thrice has he indignantly refused ; 
would you believe me, when last I urged my suit, (the lasting ground 
of amity and peace) the haughty Brian swore, that ere his blood should 
mingle with a Dane's, with his own hand (in case of defeat,) he'd slay 
his child. To-day we meditated a fatal blow — let me but gain the 
maid, it shall fall, and Erin and Erina shall be mine. l_Going, c. 

Vol. Royal Tormagnus ! 

Tor. How now, Voltimar'? 

Vol. Have I your leave to speak 1 

Tor. What would'st thou speak 1 

Vol. A soldier's thought. 

Tor. Nay, by that sullen look, I see thou art displeased, at what 1 
Vol. At this thou art about to do. 

Tor. How, Voltimar "? 

Vol. I thought there would be danger in the service, and so I came. 

Tt would have pleased me well to walk unlook'd for into Brian's hall, 

and from among his silken courtiers bear the prize you name ; it would 

, have been some sport to scratch a minion in the shining face, with my 



10 BRIAN BOROIHME. 

rude sword — but such a feat as this ! to scare a helpless woman at her 
prayers ! I pray you, for the honor of our name, let us put off these 
vests, and lay by our hack'd arms — such an exploit may suit indeed a 
silken reveller, but not a man in steel. 

Tor. Dare you dispute when I command ! 

Vol. I am a soldier, sir, and as a soldier use me. 

Tor. How again '{ be not too rash. 

Vol. 'Tis my failing, sir, I cannot help it — many a rude knock, and 
hardy scratch it gets me ; for you know J do not love to lag behind the 
fight. Nay, it has made a. kind of traitor of mg., for when the fight be- 
gins, I'm oftenpr found in the ranks of the enemy than my own 

Tor. I will not talk with thee; it is waste of time, which maybe 
better used. 

Vol. So you have said when parley has been sought before the fight — 
I heard and ask'd no other word, but bade the war-note speak, and with 
the sound flew against the foe. 

Tor. No more, I will not brook this freedom, stay or go ; suit your 
own humor. Go, Udislaus, upon the hill's summit ; take your stand, and 
give me note if you observe the foe to move. Albert, let one-half re- 
main, and watch the entrance to guard against surprise ; the rest attend 
me — come, soldiers, follow your chief 

[Music — Exit ToRMAGNUs and Soldiers into Vault, c. 

Alb. Well, Voltimar, will you remain with us 1 

Vol. No, I'll e'an follow, this is a new kind of duty, which it may be 
well to learn, so in due time we may make war with women. 
[Music — Voltimar enters Tomb — the rest arrange at its entrance — Scene 
changes. 

SCENE IV. — Hall of Shillelagh — Music — Enter Bkian,Erina, M'Carty 
Moore, Cormac ai^d Ladies, r. 2 e. 

Brian. Such, Cormac, is the order of battle ; the centre to brave 
O'Donohue, M'Carty Moore the right, yourself the left. Hence ! to 
our several chiefs the order shew, bid them prepare their troops ; the 
hour is come when Erin's foes must fall. 

[Exit Cormac and M'Carty Moore, l. 1 E, 
How's this, my child, these looks a drooping sadness wears, do you 
mistrust the issue of the contest. 

Eri. No, father, no, such a king and such a people, with justice on 
their side, are but a body of giant magnitude — immortal and invincible. 

Bri. Heroic girl, and yet I see your spirits droop ; tell mc, Erina, I 
mark'd you when a noble youth received a favor from your hand to-day, 
well ; do not blush because your heart applauds desert, your father can 
award it too ; let us but drive the^se frowns of war awa}?^, and peace and 
love shall dwell in all their smiles. [Exit Brian, r. h. 

Eri. Ah ! said he love — yes. he has given a name to all those fears 
Vifhicti sv^'ell my breast ; how subtle, and how resistless is the force of 
love, which can subdue you ere you feel its pov^-er, — he comes ! 

Enter O'Donohue, l. h. 
O^Don. In beauty's presence war forgets to bend his brow, her smiles 



BRIAN BOROIHME. ^ 11 

make his rough aspect smooth ; her voice to silence charms his clanging 
horn, and his harsh and strong breast to peace. 

Eri. This is a courtier's, not a warrior's plirase ; man is ever himself. 

O'lJon. So ever is the lion, yet they say that love can tame the lion's 
rage, and beauty is the queen of love. 

Eri. Then owns she but a doubtful sway, for oft her subject takes 
the rule himself, and makes his queen his slave. 

Enter M'Carty Moore, l. h. 

WCar. O'Donohue, the King expects you for your installation ; de- 
lay not, prince, great honor waits your sword, the foremost post of dan- 
ger, and I trust the downfall of the foe. 

O'Don. Lady, farewell ! M'Carty Moore, 'till now I ne'er was slow 
when glory called, yet should I blush, my friend, for strong must be 
the soul whose force can break that chain, like adamant, tliat binds him 
here. \_Exit O'Donohue and M'Carty Moore, l. h. 

Eri. The post of danger is my lover's post — my lover ; nay, why 
should my heart delude itself — 'tis his, it owns him for his lord. ! 
that I could transform myself, then would I take some warrior's shape, 
and to the battle go, where truer than his buckler, I would guard my 
lover's breast, would die to take him from the chance of "death. 

Enter Emma, l. h. 

Em. My lady — ^my lady. 

Eri. What means this breathless haste 1 

Em. The procession is formed, and everything prepared for the in- 
stallation of the prince ; will you not attend 1 

Eri. No, Emma, I'll alone to holy Bertha's shrine, to supplicate a 
blessing for my country, my father and my king — and oh, if love sends 
up one sigh, it will not take from them, 'tis for the champion that Erina 
prays. \_Exit, R. h. 

Em. Well, for my part, I'll tq the chapel of the Knights of Connor ; 
we shall have prayers enough when the troops march out to battle, 
such fine knights and lords are not to be sieen every day, and so my 
lady thinks, I'll be sworn ; for, after all, whatever they may say or do, I 
believe from princesses to beggars, one woman's thought is the sister 
of another. 

Roderick, who has listened, conies forward, l. h. 

Rod. Oho, is that your way of thinking, mistress Emma, what say 
you then to the lady who thinks two- husbands better than one ! 

Em. I know not for that — but I'm sure if she should think two lovers 
belter than one, I should think like her. 

Rod. Why so 1 

Em. Because two lovers together, make each other civil, but one by 
himself is always sure to be saucy. 

Hod. Well said, hussy — I'll give you a kiss for that. 

Em. Nay, sir, I know the saying to be true without your giving me 
a proof on't. 

Hod. Why, your wit is tart. 



•y 



12 , BRIAN BOROIHME. 

Em. Because my humor's not sweet, here do you detain me when 
I'm on the wing to see the finest collection of lovers that ever came to 
court. 

Hod. Why, then, I'll attend you, and to show you how purely disin- 
terested my love is, I'll e'en serve you as a pattern to choose by. 

Em. Well, come along, for a bad pattern may help to choose a good 
one, so I'll e'en take you along with me. 

liod. Vm very much obliged to you, and the more so as they who 
can't get a good pattern will be glad to snap at a bad one at last. 

lExeunt, l. n. 

SCENE V. — The chapel of the Knights of Connor — Grand, Procession 
of Knights — Soldiers — Soldiery — Harpers — Priests — hearers of the 
standard of the Red Gross and Hon — bearers of the Crown — Stand- 
ards, shields, <^c. SfC. — with theyn enter Brian Boroihme, O'Dono- 
HUE, M'Carty Moore, Terrence, Roderick, High Priest, ^c. <SfC. 

GRAND CHORUS. 

Sound, sound, Hibernia, sound the votive lay, 
With rapid fingers sweep the trembling string, 

Let fame's loud trumpet to the world convey 
Our loyalty and love to Erin's King. 

[The High Priest leads O'Donohue to the King, who Knights him. 
Roderick arrays himself in his arms. 

HIGH PRIESTS' ODE. 

Shades of my fathers, now my soul inspire, 
Whilst with enraptured lay I fondly trace 
The warlike glories of victorious Brian. 

SONG. 

Strike the Harp, raise the voice, sing the song of great Brian, 
And oft the rapt Bard his glad theme shall renew, 

In peace mild and bounteous, in battle a lion, 

In the hearts of his subjects reigns Brian Boroihme. 

How oft to the combat of Ireland so glorious, 
Undaunted to shield her, the hero quick flew ; 

How oft crown'd with conquest returning victorious, 
We hailed Erin's champion, great Brian Boroihme. 

On Tara's fam'd plains, when by myriads surrounded. 

Bright gleam'd his broad falchion, his jav'lin straight flew, 

Till the foes of our isle, with pale terror confounded, 
Bow'd their necks to their victor, great Brian Boroihme, 

Then, chieftains of Erin, remember great Brian, 

Still valiant and brave, his example pursue ; 
May you equal in valor the lord of the lion, 

And rival in glory great Brian Boroihme. 



BRIAN BOROIHME. 13 

\_At the end of Song — Cormac heard without, l. u. e.] 
Help ! help ! summon the guard — where is the King 1 
Enter Cormac, l. it. e. 

dor. My liege, the Princess ! 

Bri. Speak, what of her 1 

Cor. Passing near holy Bertha's shrine, I heard her shriek, and flew 
to her relief — when lo ! the altar was deserted, and a vault new opened 
showed a subterraneous passage — through which I saw the light of 
torches and heard the sound of many voices, and hurried steps receding. 

JBri Oh, my child ! 

O'Don. My liege, a boon ! 

Bri. Thou hast it, noble chief. 

O'Don. Be all'the peril of this action mine-^ — Pll rescue fair Erina. 

Bri. Oh, soul of valor, fly then — save my child ! Erina's hand shall 
thank thee for the deed. 

O'Doji. Ye lion-hearted warriors, follow me — lead, Cormac, lead I 
Love, lend me all thy fire — the word's Erina, victory or death ! 

iMusic — O'DoNOHUE, Cormac and soldiers rush off, l. u. e. 

SCENE VI. — A place near the tomb and ruins — Enter Albert, Danish 
Officers, R. H., and Udislaus, l. h. 

Alb. What, Udislaus, hoa ! comrade — look! the foe begins to move 
and gather to his lines — I saw a warrior on a milk-white steed start 
from the tower just now, and for the camp spur on with rapid speed I 
UdAs. What's to be done 1 

Alb. Ascend yon summit which o'erlooks our camp. Sound strong 
your horn for succor — I, meanwhile, will watch the foe. 

\_Extt Udislaus, r. h, 
Eyitcr YoLTiMAR, l. 

Alb. Now, Valtimar, what speed "? 

Vol. Success, if such it be — they reach'd the shrine unheeded by the 
maid, who, (though she bow'd before her saint,) so shone with beauty's 
grace, that she appeared the proper deity. — Nay, with the force of awe 
and admiration Tormagnus stood transfixed until she turn'd and strove 
to fly ; when, with a bound he caught the lovely prize, and bore her 
swift away. Pll own to thee, my friend, that when I heard her shrieks, 
my hand unvoluntarily touch'd my sword, and there had been treason 
'twixt the two, had I not made a swift retreat. 

Alb. I apprehend-some danger — there's a show of bustle in the Irish 
camp. 

Vol. Then let me fly — in such a cause as this, I own I should blush 
to meet an enemy. [Trumpet, e. h. 

Alb. 'Tis Udislaus that sounds for succor — prithee, Voltimar, direct 
our men to keep the cover of the hill. 

Vol. Well, if you're pressed, Pll help you — though pray heaven I get 
no wounds — there are some dozen of scars upon my body, not one but 
has a history I am proud to tell of — a scar in such a cause would damn 
the character of a.M the rest. [Exit Albert, r. h.] Go, Albert, thou'rt 



14 BRIAN BOROIHME. 

a flatterer — I've seen thee bow lower than a slave. The cause we are 
engaged in has not my heart. Passing, the other day, beyond our lines, 
I found a dying foe^our scouts had stricken — 'twas a common hind, and 
he had till'd the ground whereon he lay. His hut was raz'd, some raft- 
ers only stood bare from the ragged walls, and here and there the frag- 
ments of his little stock were strewn in wanton ruin. As his blood 
thus trickled from his wounds, his eye was fixed, and on his pallid lips 
there was a smile that spoke something more, more keen than pain. I 
would have staunched the wound, but faintly he forbade me, told a tale 
of horror and expired. His wife the savages had forced before his eyes, 
his children, shrieking at their own funeral, buried alive in the ^ruin. 
These are not the acts of men ; I love the war. but this is a bandit's 
trade, ignoble plunder, murder cowardly, and fail or prosper, shame is all 
'twill reap. [Exit, l. h. 

SCENE Vn. — The Mormmeni and Ruin — Enter Tormagnus, dragging 
Erina, Albert, Udislatjs, and Soldiers, c,,from Ruin — Soldiers pile 
up the stones and close the aperture. 

Eri. In mercy hold ! great Brian's daughter kneels for mercy ! 

Tor. Lovely maid, those prayers were vain that plead for mercy that 
were death to me — embarrass not my flight. — Thou'rt decreed by fate 
itself to be Tormagnus' bride ; nay, thine own saints confess the destiny, 
when in their very shrine you called and prayed for rescue, silent and 
unmoved they heard and saw a Pagan to his burning breast a royal vir- 
gin strain. 

Eri. Patron Saint, do you desert me now ! Where is thy sword, my 
father, when Erina cries for aid — where is the brave O'Donohue, when 
he swore with knightly faith to serve her who now is grasp'd within a 
robber's arms ! 

Tor. Lady, no more — come, lady, come. 

Eri. Soldiers, to you I cry — will you serve a coward chief like this, 
who wrongs a woman, whom the heavens made weak because they 
thought not savage force itself could harm her ! 

Tor Lady, do you scorn me thus 1 — away, then, with all forbear- 
ance. [Seizes her.\ 

Music — O'Donohue and M'Carty hurst open the aperture — Tor- 
magnus starts back — draws his sword — the Irish and Danes en- 
gage — the latter are driven off — M'Carty Moore remains with the 
Princess. 

J/' Car. Look, lady, look ! how mighty his falchion flies ! 

Eri. I dare not — ha ! Shield him, saints ! 

AT Car. The Pagan fights with a tiger's rage — our champion's casque 
is split; but still again he presses on the foe ! — Tormagnus is disarmed 
—they fly ! 

Eri. Oh, brave O'Donohue ! — [Music — she totters, and sinks in the 
arms o/M'Cakty Moore — O'Donohue enters with his Soldiers.] 

0'Do7i. Revive, my royal mistress ! 

Eri. And do I see my deliverer safe ? I know not how to speak my 
gratitude ! 



BRIAN BOROIHME. 15 

O'Don. Oh, if I dared to speak, to give a voice to the aspirin o- sii^h 
Erina's smile to me is boundless empire— liappiness supreme — my 
strength in battle — wreath in victory — my recompense in death ! 

Eri. Then take that smile, and by your wish imagine all 'twould say, 
and teach it so to speak. ♦ 

M'Car. Only by flight, by instant flight, the Princess can be saved ! 
The Pagan power has nearly hemmed us round ; away, my lord — the 
tomb ! 

O^Don. To safety guide your royal mistress. 

Eri. Come not you, my lord 1 

O'Don. Impeded by the windings of the vault, your flight cannot be 
swift; who, then, shall check the progress of the foe"! Here will I 
stand, or die ! Away, away ! Two followers remain with me, and 
when you've reached the shrine, let Roderick sound his horn. The 
foe pours down ! Erina, love, away ! 

Eri. O'Donohue, live — live for me ! 

[Exeunt M'Carty Moore and Erina, through the aperture. 

O'Don. Will it, ye saints ! Now, tigers, now come on — ye savao-e 
beasts who threat my native land ! 

Music — Shouts and flourishes — O'Donohue and followers place 
themselves on guard before the aperture — the Danes enter — Gen- 
eral Battle — O'Donohue's two followers are slain — O'Donohue 
maintains a fight against two — but is overpowered by Tormagnus 
and 0#cer.— TABLEAU ! 

ACT II. 

SCENE I. — The Hall of Shillelagh — Brian discovered seated — sur- 
rounded by his Soldiers, Attendants, cS-c. 

Bri. Days of my strength, whither have ye fled ; those sounds no 
longer soothe the warrior's breast, worn down with care — leave me, my 
children, — [Shouts without — '■'the Princess!^' ^' the Princess!''^] Ah! 
do my aged eyes deceive me — no — no — 'tis my child — my age's darling, 
[Enter Erina, attended by M'Carty Moore, l. h.] Welcome to my 
breast once more — my child, my child is safe. But wherq is your brave 
deliverer 1 

M'Car. Dread liege, the painful task remains for me, that pride of 
Erin's sons, our noble champion, is nov/ the prisoner of the foe ! 

Bri. A prisoner ! 

Eri. Oh, my heart ! [Leans 07i her attendant.] 

Bri. Retire, my dear Erina. 

Eri. Sire, I obey — 'tis not repose, alas, can bring the bloom to lost 
Erina's cheek — can cheer the heart that droops with hopeless love. 

[Exit Erina, attended, r. h. 

Bri. M'Carty Moore, how fell the youth into the Tyrant's power ] 

M'Car. Alas ! dread sire, by most unequal force. — So swift our 
ppeed, just at the cavern's mouth we overtook Tormagnus, our assault 
was sudden — quick the foe's discomfiture. But while we paused 
heedless of danger, thoughtless of retreat — the foe appeared, by more 



16 BRIAN BOIIOIHME. 

than lifty times outnumbering us — only the subterranean pass was 
left for flight ; through that we bore the princess off, while at its mouth, 
io ward all chance of danger off, O'Donohue remained, the terror but 
the victim of the foe. 

Bri Lamented youth, thy King bewails thee, and thy country feels 
thy loss ; for much she needs a friend like thee, beset with peril from 
rapacious foes, who smile to draw their swords and waste her blood. 
But say if still the gallant youth survives. 

M'Car. A herald overtook us near the gate, charged with a message 
from the Pagan chief — by him we learn the Prince was captive made — 
my liege, the herald waits. 

Bri. Let him approach. [Exit M'Carty and attendants, l. h. 

Ah, my dear country, bear me witness, I wrong thee not, if now I shed 
a tear ; beyond or friend or child, I value thee, and light would hold 
their ruin as my own, if from our fall thy liberties might spring — 
lEnter Vdislavs, preceded by M'Carty, l. 1 e.] Now, what from Tor- 
magnus 1 

Udis. Amity and peace — the price, Erina and yqur kingdom's half 
This offer spurned — war, fierce and merciless, and instant death to the 
brave O'Donohue, your country's proudest boast. My errand done, I 
crave your pardon — I speak the words of Scandanavia's chief 

Bri. Pagan, observe ! When first this envied island sought your 
aid, it priz'd your prowess and your skill in arms ; from the fough seas 
we welcomed you to feast, we spread our boards with richest banquets ; 
for your repose prepared the softest couches, and while they slept our 
honor was their guard, that still they woke in safety ; our daughters 
we gave to them in marriage, nor restrained thei,r worship, holding it 
wrong in the sight of heaven to stipulate the law of conscience, and 
order how its votaries should kneel : such was our faith. Now, Pagan, 
mark the contrast ! These stranger friends, by ambition urged, sought 
to make us slaves ; we crushed them, and were free ; how come their 
sons to undo their fathers' deeds ! Hence to your chief; tell him he 
may as well pierce this, and this the body of our land, as penetrate the 
hearts of its bold sons, consolidated in one common cause : tell him we 
know the faith of Danish leagues, and will not yield on other terms 
than these : quit thou our shores, and we will sheath our swords ; re- 
main, and they shall make your graves of blood ! 

M'Car. The brave O'Donohue, my liege. 

Bri. True, true, I owe him much ; but, by all my hopes, I owe my 
country more ; guide the courier past our lines, M'Carty Moore. {Exit 
Udislaus amZ M'Oaety, l. 1 e.] Collect our forces straight ; at nightfall 
we will surprise the Danish camp, perhaps preserve my friend. By the 
shades of my great forefathers, I swear, when once my sword is drawn 
in fight, it shall not quit my arm 'till life desert me, or the foe be pros- 
trate on the shores he dares invade ! \_Exit Brian and Officers, r. 

SCENE IL — A Hall — Enter Roderick preceding Emma, l. h. 

Rod. Oh thou traitress ! why did you not tell of it before 1 The 
princess gone in disguise to the Danish camp ! Here's a pretty busi- 
ness ; why, do you expect to live another hour — do you expect to escape 



BRIAN BOROIHME. 17 

beheading] I'll go and inform the King myself— he'll pass your sen- 
tence — and I'll be your executioner. 

Em. No, that you would not, I'm sure, Roderick, for you know I'd a 
right to obey her, because 

Hod. Because what 1 

Em. I should have done exactly as she has done. 

Rod. Don't tell me — you would not ! 

Em. Indeed, but I should, sir. If princesses will do so much for 
their lovers, I do not see any reason why I, that attend on one, should 
not do the lil^ for mine. 

Hod. I don't believe any such thing— it won't do. Miss Emma— . 

Enter Terrence, r. h. 

Ter. Why, what's the matter with you 1 

Rod. Matter, sir — matter enough ! 

Ter. Yes, you are quarrelling — ah, Miss Emma, 'tis all your own 
fault ; take my word for it, after all, there's no lover like an old lover ; 
those young rascals think so much of themselves. 

Em. Why, that's very true, Terrence ; but if I must be plagued, 
give me one young one before an hundred of your old ones. 

Rod. Never heed her, Terrence — she's a worthless woman — she's a 
traitress ! 

Ter. Out with your sword, sir — you say falsely ! Out with your 
sword, sir — a traitress ! Out with your sword, sir ! 

Em. Nay, I pray you, put up your sword, good Terrence ! 

Ter. 1 say you young men are nothing but swaggerers — they're not 
worth the smile of a pretty woman — come on, sir ; I am the champion 
of beauty — so I give you my mortal defiance ! 

Rod. Put up your sword, my old boy ; go and get alongside your 
Cruiskeen, and get into good humor again. 

Ter. What's that you say of my Cruiskeen 1 It never keeps company 
with a knav^ or a swaggerer ; it is sacred to the worship of beauty, 
and I'll not suffer you or any other man to say a word against my. 
Cruiskeen. 

Em. Never mind him, Terrence : he's only a swaggerer : come, to 
oblige me, now, if you have any regard for me, put up your sword. ^ 

Ter. If I have any regard for you! There, Miss Emma; but that 
saucy boy ! 

Rod. Come, come, old Terrence, you know nothing of the matter ; 
the Princess is so mad with love 

Ter. Say not a word against love, sir ! 

Rod. I tell you our lady has gone in disguise to the Danish camp. 

Ter. Ayl , . 

Rod. This lady was privy to it, and never discovered it 'till now ; so, 
come along. Madam — tell the whole affair, and take me along with you 
to beg for pardon ! [Exit Emma and Roderick, r. 

Ter. Bless my body and bones, the Princess gone in disguise to the 
Danish camp ! Arragh, why didn't she take me along with her 1 {.Exit r. 



18 BRIAN BOROIIIME. 

SCENE III. — Danish Encampment — Interior of Tormagnus' Tent — 
Enter Tormagnus and Elgitha, e, h. 

Tor. Woman, no more — the Christian prisoner dies ! 

Elg. Forbear, Tormagnus — by our love I charge yon, harm not your 
prisoner as, you prize Elgitha ! This Prince, at Tara's field, preserved 
my life — will not Tormagnus own the noble deed 1 

Tor. Will you deny, that since that cursed day your looks have worn 
an altered favor towards me 1 — absent thoughts, looks wishful, sighs at 
times half check'd bursting their way. \_Tru'm.pet heard ^ No more. 

Elg. What sounds areHhose ] 

Tor. He comes to hear his sentence — \_Enter Voltimar and O'Dono- 
HUE, guarded and in chains, l. h.] Christian, you are in my power ; yet 
would I use my fortune mildly : mark my offer, then. Renounce your 
faith — your monarch and his cause, and you are free. We take you to 
our arms, and equal rank and honor, and the half of ail our victories 
we'll assign to you ! What is your answer, Prince '\ 

O'lJon. Oh ! that these galling fetters were but loos'd — but arm'd 
this hand — then, back'd by all thy host, I'd answer thee, fell tyrant, as I 
ought. What ! sell my native land, fell robber ! — No, though scorpion 
furies waited on thy word — though all hell's malice at my fame were 
hurl'd — for all the boundless empires of the world — I'd not desert my 
country, king and God ! 

Tor. 'Tis well I we'll bend your stubborn courage yet ! Remember. 
Prince, 'tis for a falling cause you spurn my clemency ; your country 
soon must own the all-subduing hardihood of northern soldiers. 

0' Don. Soldiers ! you disgrace the name of soldiers — you were bet- 
ter called the hounds of murder ! J31ood cannot flow enough to glut 
you ; massacre, besmeared as it is, rank and corrupt, is yet too clean to 
please you ! Your ears to horror strung — not yet content with groans 
from mangled bodies in a heap — with women's shrieks delight them- 
selves : 'till gory war, struck with the image you show him of himself, 
with horror stands aghast ! 

Tor. Bear the slave hence ! One hour we give for choice ; then life 
or death awaits his word. Life crowned with honor, riches, glory, fame -, 
or, a dreadful, pubhc, ignominious death ! 

O'Don. Say ignominious life and glorious death I The way the cul- 
prit dies, can only shame the culprit ; but when 'tis the option of the 
honorable mind, your shameful rack and public execution become the 
body more than all the honors apostacy could purchase from corruption. 

Tor. We'll shortly try the temper of thy valor. 

O^Don. Then let the trial come ; 'tis only pain to linger. Come, lead 
me to my cell ; and know, proud man, though at thy mercy, I defy thy 
power, and die with pleasure in my country's cause. 

[Exit O'DoNOHUE, guarded, l. 

Tor. What say'st thou now, Elgitha, should I spare this stubborn 
chief, who dares to scorn my power ! 

Elg. My lord, his rashness justly seals his doom. Yet, if Elgitha 
can, she will prevent it ! Yes, fallen as he is, and prostrate by thy 
power, he drives the tyrant from Elgitha's heart. [Aside and exit, k. 



BRIAN BOROIHME. 19 

Tor. The sounds of music ; and the soldiers crowd around with anx- 
ious looks. Who have you there ": 

Enter Udislaus conducting Erina disguised as a blind harper hoy, l. h. 

Udis. A wandering harper boy, deserted by his guide ; he wandered 
near our camp, but though so young, is still master of his art. Play to 
our chief [Erina sits and sings a verse.'\ 

Tor. I like his music well ; conduct him to Elgitha's tent. Remem- 
ber. Voltimar, our prisoner dies at nightfall. \^Exit Tormagnus, r. 

Eri. \_Asidel^ That prisoner is O'Donohue ; heart, betray me not ; it 
fails me, I am lost ! \_Faints in the arms 0/ Voltimar.] 

Vol. What means the boy — ah, that face — 'tis she — 

Udis. [Sharply. 1 How 1 

Vol. A little, puny boy, who feared our chiefs command — referred to 
him — come, come, rouse thee, little dastard, rouse thee — what dost thou 
fear ] — tliere, go, go to the lady Elgitlia ; see you play your best, or else 
your pains might else lack thanks. 

"^Udislaus and Albert conduct Erina off, r. h. 

Vol. Yes, 'tis the Princess! What can have~ brought her here 1 
Love — yes, love for our gallant prisoner. 'Twas love inspired him to 
deeds of valor in this day's affair ; thank heaven, my sword was not 
against him in the fight ! Yes, 'lis love that has urged her in this dis- 
guise to seek and save her chief 'Tis nobly done ; 'tis honor's cause ; 
and come what will, I'll save the lovers, or perish in the attempt. 

lEzit Voltimar, l. h. 

Enter FjUgitka, followed by a Page conducting Erina, r. h. 

Elg. Sure love alone can make such sounds. Come hither, harper ; 
know you the Prmce, your strains did say so 1 

Eri. I am his vassal, lady ; and never vas.sal knew a kinder lord. 
Alas ! thai I should live to hear you tell that he's in bondage ! 

Elg. If I should use this harper he might prove a trusty friend to 
save his country and his lord ; I'll try him. Behold in me his friend; 
I'll save him. 

Eri. Will you, lady 1 Heaven will bless you for it! Wliat does 
she mean 1 

Elg. Hide this letter in thy bosom — my page shall conduct you to 
his dungeon ! If that indeed he owns a grateful heart, his liberty is 
now at his command. {To Page.'] Conduct the harper boy; I have 
taught him how to win the Irish Chief to the" great Tormagnus' side. 
Give him this signet ; thus shall Elgitha win the Prince's praise — her 
country's thanks. [Exit Erina. led by Page, l. h.] Soon as the dusk 
shall fall, unmasked I may approach the guard ; accustomed to obey 
my will, t'liey'll let him forth with me, and then we'll fly to liberty and 
boundless joys of love ! [Exit, r. h. 

SCENE IV. — A Prison, O'Donohue discovered, chained 
O^Don. When will my hour arrive] I long to end my course : the 
very moments seem to creep. How dull and tedious is captivity ! 
[Trumpet]. Vv'^hen last I heard that sound, my sword struck terror to 



20 ' BRIAN BOROIHME. 

the heart of many a Dane : Erina, then I fought for thee, and now 1 
perish for thee. 

Enter Erina and Page, d. f. 

Page. This is his dungeon. 

Eri. You may leave me ; your lady gave command we should confer 
alone. [£a;i^ Page]. My lord, my lord ; O'Donohue ! 

O'Don. B. Who speaks my name 1 — what are you'? 

Eri. L. One that brings a captive hope of freedom. 

O Don. Who has sent you ■? 

Eri. Elgitha. 

O^Don. Ha ! Elgitha, do you say 1 I saved her life in Tara's bloody 
field : this tells me she remembers well the debt. 

Eri. A letter. Prince. 

O'Don. What, from Elgitha, too. [Reads]. Ha ! liberty ! Elgitha, 
generous and noble fair ! yes, you shall share my flight, and ever find a 
home with him you save ! Let me read further. 

Eri. Then farewell, life and love. 

O'Don. My faith the prize — ray love to my Erina. Oh, fatal line, my 
chains were taken off, and now you rivet them again. 

Eri. How, Prince., what mean you — is the fair Elgitha's love a theme 
for sadness? — is the gallantry of Irish Knights so cold, that they regret 
the smiles of beauty '? 

O^Don. Hence, thou mocking Page ! hence to thy lady's couch, no 
more molest my dungeon ! — Oh, Erina ! [Retires up. 

Eri. O, moment of my life, most sad, most blest, they wrong yoii, 
joy, that paint you with a smile ; for you were ne'er so sweet to me as 
now. 

O^Don. Why dost weep, boy 1 

Eri. I have a friend like thee in bondage . 

O'Don. Sure, thou cans't not grieve for him, and yet not pity me. 
Oh, could I find that enemy who for the sake of pity would render me 
the service of a friend ! 

Eri. What then 1 

O'Don. I'd teach him to sweeten death for one whose life is the last 
good that death can rob him of 

Eri. Unfold your wish : I swear, tho' to perform it may exceed my 
power, I'll ne'er betray it. 

O^Don. Well, then, I'll trust thee : I die to-night; watch thou, and 
from the gash next my heart this token stain — it is my mistress' scarf — 
'twill be thy passport to the camp of Royal Brian ; bear it to his court, 
and when you enter his throng'd hall, no name pronounce, enquire for 
no degree, but when among the crowd of beauties you perceive one 
peerless one, then drop it without a word, save what a sigh or tongue- 
less tear might speak. 

Eri. Oh never be that office mine ; thou see'st that I am blind ! my 
rebel soul springs from my breast and flutters on my lips impatient to 
'declare me. [Noise of chains without, d. f. 

Elgi- [Withoid}. Wait you without. 

Eri. Elgitha here ! — my lord, I've but a moment ; seem but to con- 
sent — yield to Elgitha for Erina's sake. 



BRIAN BOROIHME. 



21 



O'Dow. Eriria's sake 1— how for Erma's'! , ., ^. 

EH Peace, she's here. [Elgitha enters, d. fJ. Behold the fair to whom 
your thanks are due. Your humble vassal here is but an instrument— 
■'tis fair Elgitha that breaks your bonds and sets you free from death. 
Thank her, my lord, and use the means she gives. , .^, . . 

Elsi u. iRestrains Uvi\ Forbear, great. Prince, to thank Elgitha: 
she is nobly paid in saving him she loves. The dusk now falls ; now is 
our time for flight . let us use it, then, and liberty and joy will soon be 
ours. Thus do I loose your chains to rivet you in softer bonds. 

[Takes off his chains, and retires a little. O'Donohue hesitates. 

Eri. L. l^Asidel. Consent, consent— 'tis for Erina. 

O'Don. c. Erina ! what can he mean 1 

EH. Heaven, I thank you ! ^ r^ r j tt. 

Elgi. Now follow. [Elgitha goes to door.. O'Donohue leads Erina. 

Elgitha seeing this, motions him to stop. 

O'Don. What does Elgitha mean 1 

Elgi. That boy must stay. 

O'Don. Must stayl 

Elgi. So many cannot pass securely. 

O'Don. And must he stay to sate the tyrant's rage 1 

Eri lAsidel To save my lord, with pleasure will I doom myself. 

O'Don Lady, in battle I have placed my heart before the meanest 
vassal in our ranks, whom I have seen in an unequal fight : upon such 
terms I cannot take my life. 

Eloi Is then Elgitha slighted for a page ! Remember, Prince, it is 
not life alone that you neglect : Elgitha's love is scorned— beware her 

^^Erl Then all is lost— inspire me, Heaven ! [Strikes Harp. 

SONG. 

If the lord of the forest do pine in the toil, 
Then fortune unfriendly to virtue will prove, 
- So slight not the safety that now seems to smile. 
And restor'd you shall be both to freedom and love. 

Elsi. What means the boy 1 _ •-,••, 

O'Don. 'Tis she ! 'tis she ! I know the voice— that strain— disguised 
she comes to give me liberty ! ^ 

Eri I urge my lord to profit by your mercy. His native music 
would, 1 thought, revive his sluggish senses which imprisonment has 
dull'd and render'd dead to love. -, .-. i,. r , j 

O'Don Oh true! it wakes a thousand tender thoughts of love and 
rrratitude. Sing on, good youth ; the last expresses more my present 
% o a [Erina sings. 

Tho' the lord of the forest do pine in the toil? 
And fortune unfriendly to virtue do prove, 
Yet sorrow forgets all its pain at the smile, 
That beams from the visions of freedom and love. 

Elgi. Quick '.—decide at once. 



r 



22 BRIAN BOROIHME. 

0''Don. O ! generous fair, permit the Harper boy to share my flight, 
I'll follow thee. 

JElgi. It cannot be ! Who is this favored youth, whose safety is 'so 
precious 1 'Tis plain Elgitha is hut flattered for a time to gain that 
freedom which, when obtained, will be converted into Elgitha's shame. 
Your doom at once is sealed, and for that boy he shares your fate. 

O'Don. Oh, Heaven ! 

£]lgi. \_Crosses c]. Give me that signet, boy. What kind of hand is 
this 1 No vassal hath a hand so white — so smooth — thou would'st 

withdraw it. — Ha ! thy tale so moving, and thy tender lord art thou 

a woman 1 

Enter Tormagnus and Soldiers, r», f. 

Tor. R. c. Seize the traitress ! — [They seize her.'] 

Elgi. Ha ! betrayed 1 

Tor. Perfidious woman ! yes. Conduct her hence to instant death. 
So, my lord, this is your loyalty — your boasted love to Royal Brian's 
daughter— you are he, for whom Erina scorns the great Tormagnus. 

Elgi. Erina ! oh revenge, I thank thee ; death will be to me most 
welcome, in the fall of him I loved, and her for whom he scorned me. — 
\_Breaks from guards]. Guard, by your leave. — \_Goes to Eeina and 
tears off bandage'] — Is not this she ■? 

Tor. Erina ! 

Mgi. Ha ! my prophetic thought was true. What ! Ireland's Prin- 
cess so the slave of love she becomes a wandering Harper boy 1 Fair 
lady, lay aside your male attire, and in my place near great Tormagnus 
shine : I' am your lover's bride — death weds us — but sweet is my fate 
to yours, whose bridal day buries your love, and weds yoii to your bane. 

[Exit Elgitha guarded, n f. 

Tor. Erina in my power ! — Star of niy fate, I thank thee ! Bear the 
Princess to my tent. O'Donohue, now is defeat revenged — now Brian, 
I defy thee ! 

Eri. I'll die rather ! 

[Erina and O'Donohue rush into each other'' s arms — they arc torn 
asunder — she is home out — the guards folloio — O'Donohue tries to 
escape by door — the grating falls, and the Soldiers oppose their spears 
to htm. — [Tableux. 

ACT III 

SCENE I. — Tormagnus' tent — Tormagnus a7id Udislaus discovered 
watching Erina, who reclines on a couch in a state of insensibility, r. h. 

TQr. The cordials fail, 'tis death that holds her thus ; death, from 
whose grasp no human power can tear its victim. 

Udis. My lord, she does but swoon ; see, my lord, the vital heat re- 
mains. 

To7: Beware, I charge you, attempt not to delude my soul with hopes 
you cannot realize — lest being deceived, you share their ruin ; now, by 
heaven, your chief would half his northern kingdom pay to save her life. 

Alb. [without, c] To arms I To arms — the foe I 



BRIAN BOROIHME. 

Enter Albekt, c. 

Tor. The foe ! 

Alh. A fee more deadly. Voltimar, with his band, assail the ui 
where the Irish chief is held, yoxxx presence only can retain the guaiuK,, 
and call them back to duty, and check the spreading mischief. 

Tor. Fellow me. \^Fxit Tormagnus, and Officers, c. 

Enter Voltimar, cautiously, l. h. 

Vol. Fight on my gallant band — let your swords be proof, your aim 
be true, I'll act my part, fair lady, ah ! not here — gracious heaven, what 
do I see, dead, no, no, life is not yet extinct ; now Voltimar, quick bear 
off your lovely burthen while opportunity offers. \_Takes Erina on his 
shoulder.} Now, ye daring hands that robb'd the Uon of its youngling, 
see if ye will dare to cross me. \^Exit Voltimar, bearing ^rith a, l. h. 

Enter Tormagnus a7id Soldiers, c. 

2 or. Drag him along — I'll shake his stubborn soul. I'll feast him 
with a banquet he expects not. [O'Donohue is brought on in chains, c. 

So, worthy sir, you have found friends, it seems. Instruct me by 
what promises or gifts you've brib'd the faith of my apostate chief, and 
rais'd rebellion in my camp 1 

O'Don. (l. c.) That question make to your own foul cause, 'twill 
answer you. — 'twill show that the cruel and abhorred tyrant himself, 
which rebellion points to his heart — 'tis not the power of gold, not the 
seduction of the foreign foe that saves iiis throne. The undeserved 
wrong, the lust of cruelty — the insolent contempt of injustice, are the 
tyrant's foes, and in the heavy groans, which they extract from aching 
innocence, his awful knell is surely heard to sound. 

Tor. (r.) Your lofty strain preserve, I'll give it a more copious theme. 
You know, perhaps, I've found a precious hostage, which, as I am a ty- 
rant, like a tyrant, I may employ to please my will. You've called me 
loathed tyrant — be that tyrant's friend — upon the instant make an oath 
to him of lasting league, or, here before your eyes this precious hoitage 
dies — I'm prepared, stay, or bid me do it — you will not answer ; nay, 
then, your silence speaks. [Tormagnus rushes to the couch, and raises 
the cloak.l Furies — madness — she's gone ! She has escaped ! 

Enter Udislaus in haste, c. 

Udi. My lord, passing the outer sentinel, I found him stretched on 
the earth,' pale and bleeding, we gathered from his scattered account, 
that Voltimar, with Great Brian's daughter, forced the guard whom he 
vainly strove to hold from flight. 

Tor. The traitor — quick, pursue him, towards to Irish camp — away ! 
tho' much I fear 'twill be in vain. 

O^Dan. Now, tyrant, strike to my heart, and welcome. 

Tor. Then take thy doom. 

[Takes up his battle axe to strike him down, but hesitates. 

O'Don. Wliy do you pause 1 0, look at tyranny in all the terrors of 
its lawless rage ! — how poor it is ! — while conscious truth and virtuous 
courage, from beneath its feet, can smite it. 



BRIAN BOKOIHME. 

^dst on ; yet, from those lips my dire revenge shall bring 

..k as anguish e'er can crowd them — death thou shalt have — 

tinall be a death of lingering torture — bear him to his fate. With 

awful preparation feast his eyes ; and then, with horrid execution try hiin. 

O^Dov.. Lead on ! Yet hear this doom I prophesy ; howe'er your 

cause ma}'^ prosper, you shall live accurst. When conquest shall have 

sated you, you will shake off your wedded friends who cUng unto your 

wavering fortunes : fear shall be your only guard, and you shall purchase 

from the hireling's hand each minute of your life ; on either side of you 

horror and hate shall be ; no face shall meet you with a smile, save he 

who in his bosom hides tlie blade from which your blood shall reek ; and 

at your ftll no groan shall issue but your own ; but shouts for sighs — 

for streaming eyes, exulting looks — and slaves enfranchised, howling forth 

their joys, shall make the tyrant's dismal funeral. 

\_Exit O'DoNOHUE, guarded, followed by Tobmagnus, c. 

SCENE II.— Hall of Shillelah. 

Rod. [without] To arms ! To arms ! [Enter l. h.] What hoa ! old 
Terrence — where are you — Terrcnce — Terrence ! 

Enter Tereence, in armor, k. h. 

Ter. Here, my boy ! 

Rod. What! you in armor 1 

Ter. Why, what surprises you, honey"? 

Rod. Your gray hairs and such a dress as that. 

Ter. Why, you young rascal, you'd never be able to fight without 
me. 

Rod. No! 

Ter. No, by St. Patrick, I'm the veteran of your army. No, not even 
King Brian is as old as I am.; therefore, my post shall be in front of ye 
all. 

Rod. The front of us all! 

Ter. Ay, the front of ye all. T was born to serve my country before 
any of you ; and, therefore, I have a right to die before any of you for 
her service. I have seen some Iburscore years, Master Roderick, and 
you have seen some twenty- years, and yet, when the battle begins, I 
think you would be hard put to it, to give two blows to my one ; how- 
ever, let every man perform his best, and 'twill do, Master Roderick. 

Rod. But how comes it, Terrence, that you could not hav* been sober 
to-day, such a day as this 1 

Ter. Sober, Roderick, you've not half a I tell you. sir, that if we 

beat the Danes, it will be owing to the virtue of my libation. 

Rod. The virtue of your libations ! Pretty doctrine, truly ; so, then, 
loping is a virtue — but prithee, how can drinking serve our country 
this day j 

Ter. Marry ! for the prayers it has drawn from me — my toasts, Rod- 
erick, are always my prayers ; and to-day I drank three toasts in three 
pint bottle bumpers. 

Rod. What was the first 1 



BRIAN BOROIHME. 25 

Ter. Brian ! our father and our king — success to his arm, for it ia 
the guardian of his people. 

Rod. A good toast, Terrence. Had I been with you, I would have 
drank it in two bottles ; well, what was the next ? 

Ter. Success to old Terrence — and may the years of him who fights 
the battles of his country, give strength and not weakness to his arm. 

Rod. An excellent toast, too ! 

Ter. Would you have drank that in two bottles 1 

Rod. I would, Terrence. 

Ter. Give me your hand, you're an honest fellow ! 

Rod. Well, Terrence, what was the third and last 1 

Ter. 'Twas the land of sweet Erin, and victory for the people that 
strive for their country's liberty. Would you have drank that in two 
two bottles 1 

Rod. I would — I would, Terrence. 

Ter. Then I said true, master Roderick — ^you ought to have been as 
drunk as I am. 

Enter Emma, l. h. ■ 

Em. O, Roderick ! shall we meet again 1 

Rod. We shall — we shall, my girl. 

Ter. Ah, mistress Emma, you little care about ould Terrence, that 
loves you as well, though you do nothing but huff him ! W^ell, well, I'll 
leave you to kiss and say good bye. 

Em. I shall do no such thing, sir. .. ' 

Ter. Indeed, but you will ; and so farewell to you — and should ould 
Terrence be left on the field of battle, you may find, perhaps, that he left 
a dowry for you, before he discharged his debt to his country. [Exit, l. 

Rod. Poor old Terrence 1 — The king is coming — what, you would not 
have me stay behind, would you "? [Exeunt l. 

SCENE lll.—Hallin Brian's CastU—^mk.-^:, High Priest and Sol- 
diers discovered — M'Carty Moore, cf-c. 

Bri. Now soldiers, are you ready for the fight 1 'Tis well — this noble 
valor foretells the downfall of the foe — M'Carty Moore, how seem our 
soldiers in the camp "? 

M'Car. My liege, as men who only value life to their scorn of death. 
As soon as dusk began to fall, I called them to their ranks, and com- 
manding silence, I ask'd them if they were prepared to meet the foe 1 
No word was spoke, but all upon the instant rais'd their spears aloft, 
and mov'd their shining swords. I own, my liege, I never saw defiance 
look so bold ! 

Bri. 'Tis well, give me the glorious banner of the Harp, dear symbol 
of my native land, 111 guard thy sacred strings that peerlessly can tune 
for peace or war. Who takes thee from my grasp, shall take my scep- 
tre too ! Strike up St. Patrick, and let us march to liberty or death ! 
[3Iarch, St. Patrick's Day — Brian takes the Banner, and leads off the 

Troops, R. H. 



26 BRIAN BOROIHME. 

SCENE IV.— A Rocky Pass. 
Eri. iWithoiU.'] Desist, Tormagnus ! Tyrant, hold ! Help! help! 
Enter VoLTiMAR hearing Euina, l. h. 

Vol. Fear not, fair lady — I am your friend. 

Eri. My friend ! 

Vol. Yes ! I have conveyed you from Tormagnus' power, and now 
we pass the Danish lines I 

Eri. Oh, generous stranger! 

Vol. Lady, let us embrace the opportunity that offers itself. Haste, 
lady, haste, while flight is possible I 

Eri. I leave him, then, to perish I Oh, Erina ! is it thus you reward 
the brave O'Donohuel who, for thy sake, suffers inglorious bondage! 
l^Looks off.] Ah ! tell me — what distant flame is that, which burns so 
red ? 

Vol. 'Tis the dread flame of Odin, the dread fire-king ! 
^ Eri. Ah ! I perceive — a sacrifice — anJ perhaps the brave O'Donohue's 
the victim ! Oh, my poor father ! come to thy Erina's aid ! Save, oh 
save my love ! Ha ! see where they fasten on and bind him to the 
stake ! Ha, O'Donohue, I come — I come to join you ! [Falls.] 

Enter Udislaus and Albert, l. h. 

Udis. So, Voltimar, you've betrayed our prince ! Yield your charge. 

Vol. Never ! 

Udis. Seize on the lady, and bear her to the prince. You, Voltimar, 
must with me, and answer this. 

Vol. Hold, Udislaus ! is this the foe we came to fight "? Look, Udis- 
laus — 'tis woman — helpless woman! 

Udis. Seize on them ! 

Vol. Stand off, I say ! In battle I have seen thee oft, but never saw 
thee strike a fallen foe ! Behold this sword — once in the field it saved 
you — 'tis bared for helpless innocence! Never shall it be sheathed un- 
til I have performed my task — or failing, fall a breathless corse ! 

[Umsi.AUs and Albert attack Vof.timar — they nearly overpower him, 
when Brian rushes in, r. h., to Ms rescfxc, and heats them off. 

Bri. What means this strife — what art thou, stranger 1 

Vol. A Dane. I know thee by thy lofty mein. — Thou art great Brian 
— advance, and raise thy daughter to your arms. 

Bri. [Raises Erina.] My child -my child ! 

Eri. My father ! 

Bri. But the Prince ! 

Vol. Is condemned to death ! 'Ere now they lead him to his fate. — 
Haste, great sir! Collect what force you can, and by winding round 
yon hills, we may unperceived fall on them. Fire the first few tents 
we meet : the wind blows from the East ; the conflagration will be gen- 
eral I Haste, great sir, and I will lead you ; time is precious — follow 
— follow me ! ' [Exit l. h. 



BRIAN BOROIHME. 27 

SCENE V. — Danish Eucampment, with a view of the old town of Dublin 
and Bay — Danish vessels at anchor — A 'procession of Death — O'Dono- 
HUE conducted to execution, followed by Toiimagnus,/?-o/7i u. e. r. 

Tor. Now, Irelajnd's champion, can thy stoic soul look upon death — 
and sach a death as this — unmoved, unchanged 1 Say, wilt thou be 
wise, and shun the ignomy that awaits thee \ 

O'Don. Thou curs'd destroyer of my country's peace, by whose ma- 
lignant, baleful influence our groaning country bleeds at every pore ; 
glut, satiate thy hellish vengeance on me ! I brave its power ; firm and 
unbending as Hibernian oak, I dare thy utmost malice ! The bolt may 
shiver and the lightning blast ; but, like its trunk, undaunted and erect, 
though leafless, branchless, stript of all support, our ruin shall protect 
our ancient glory. 

Tor. Give the slave the torture ! 

O'Don My soul shall soar -above thy dire revenge. Think ye the 
gaze of thousands, or the public execution, can appal the patriot soul ! 
Stretch'd on this iron bed of pain and anguish, my parting soul shall 
wing its flight to heaven ; whilst thou, assassin, on thy gilded couch, 
shall feel the scorpion stings that goad thy heart, and carry all thy fu- 
ture hell within thee ! 

Tor. Obey me, slaves ! 

Enter Udislaus, in haste, u. e. r. 
Udi. Quick ! prepare for battle, my lord, or foul defeat attends your 
drms ! 

Tor. Strike every hand ! 

They raise their axes to strike O'Donohue — when Brian and party rush 
in, V. E. R. — Roderick releases O'Donohue — A ge^^rtl battle com- 
mences, and terminates in the total discomfiture of iM J^a'nfis — and 
triumph of the Irish — the Danish fleet on fire in the di'iian<:fi ! 



THE END 



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